OpinionWorld Cup star Cristiano Ronaldo ‘born to be the best’ says Iran’s former Manchester United and Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz

“Maybe it was a spy,’ was Queiroz’s first thought. ‘We used to have them. I called security and they went check the suspicious figure out. Their answer? ‘It’s Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s training alone’. He was unique.”

“I worked with some outstanding young Portuguese players like Rui Costa, Jorge Costa, Luis Figo, Joao Pinto and Paulo Sousa. I worked with very good players at Manchester United and Real Madrid, but when I saw the young Cristiano I could tell his potential was the best I’d ever seen in a player,” declares Queiroz.

His Iran side were unbeaten for almost four years in competitive matches until last week’s 1-0 reverse against Spain after a deflected goal from Diego Costa finally overcame their stubborn resistance.

Iran kept 18 clean sheets in those 22 competitive games unbeaten. All this despite difficulties caused by the tough sanctions imposed on their country. Iran struggled to find opponents for friendly matches, to find equipment for training.

Iran need to beat Portugal, who Queiroz has also managed – twice, between 1991 and 1993 and again between 2008-2010 when he had some rough moments with Ronaldo in his team. Victory will make sure of qualification and a first ever appearance in the knockout stages.